Application Deadline:
31 November 2025
About Organisation
The Sumitomo Foundation is a Japanese nonprofit grant-making foundation established in 1991. Its mission is to contribute to the betterment of human society through support of research, culture, and international exchange. Its grant programs include support for environmental research, basic science, Japanese-related social science, and cultural heritage preservation both inside and outside Japan. The foundation aims to preserve cultural artifacts, promote academic research, and foster mutual understanding between Japan and other countries. One of its core programs is devoted to funding projects that protect, conserve, and restore valuable cultural properties located outside Japan, recognizing these as part of the shared heritage of humanity.
About the Grant
The Grant for Protection, Preservation & Restoration of Cultural Properties Outside Japan supports projects aimed at safeguarding tangible cultural heritage (such as fine arts, historic structures, or archaeological sites) located outside Japan. The goal is to ensure these cultural properties—valued for their artistic, historical, or academic significance—are preserved for future generations. The grant also funds preliminary surveys connected directly to restoration or conservation efforts. In the 2025 fiscal year, the sum total allocated is ¥35,000,000 (JPY), and about 15 projects are expected to be selected. The grant period is one year (March to March), and the approved projects must be conducted within that timeframe. Applications may be made in English or Japanese.
Who can Apply?
Eligible applicants include owners or administrators of cultural properties, or researchers who will carry out preliminary surveys or conservation work. Projects must relate directly to the protection, preservation, or restoration of tangible cultural heritage outside Japan.
Ineligible applicants include:
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For-profit corporations
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Individuals owning cultural properties solely for private use or profit
Applicants must be capable of executing or overseeing the work. The foundation’s selection committee evaluates proposals for academic or artistic merit, feasibility, and alignment with heritage preservation objectives.
How to Apply?
Submit a completed application form via the Sumitomo Foundation’s website, along with supporting documents (description of property, current condition, proposed conservation plan, cost estimates, and applicant’s credentials). Follow the Application Guide and Procedure & Instruction documents carefully. Applications may be submitted in English or Japanese.
Application Deadline
The 2025 application period runs from 1 October to 30 November 2025.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
